Big Apple Circus is Back and Better Than Ever

Big Apple Circus is Back and Better Than Ever

I've always loved the circus. Watching death-defying acts and hilarious clowns all while shoveling hot and salty roasted peanuts by the handful into my mouth, were some of my earliest memories as a kid. Now as an adult, I'm happy to see that one of my favorite troupes, Big Apple Circus, is celebrating its 40th Anniversary at Lincoln Center. For this year’s celebration, Big Apple Circus is proud to present 10-time World Record Holder, Nik Wallenda. Hailed as “The King of The High Wire” and the “Greatest Daredevil of Our Generation,” Nik and the Fabulous Wallendas promise to amaze audiences with feats of daring never before seen under the Big Apple Circus big top.

In 1947, the Wallenda’s premiered an epic feat, a seven-person pyramid cross on the highwire, and for 14 years, it was their defining triumph. However, in 1962, it also became the source of the Wallenda’s greatest tragedy, when the pyramid collapsed during a performance in Detroit. For years, the seven-person pyramid was relegated to the archives of Wallenda family lore; but in 1999, it would again be at the heart of one of the Wallenda’s greatest triumphs. Nik Wallenda now continues to carry the legacy forward, training and leading his troupe in performing “the seven”, and exhibiting the spirit of the Wallenda family that in triumph or tragedy will never give up.

My publisher, Adeline Tafuri, took her two young daughters to see the circus this week, "The show was great," she says. "My kids are 3 and 5 years old and they enjoyed it. My daughter Portia loved the horses and the dogs as well as the clown routine where they spit water at each other. Another bonus is that they sell snacks and gifts inside the tent and wine for parents!"

Big Apple Circus began as an alternative to the glitz and spectacle of the American three-ring circus but has since epitomized the intimacy and artistry associated with the European one-ring circus. This ensures there isn't a bad seat in the house; no seat is more 50 feet from the ring. Visit the Big Apple Circus this holiday season the troupe performs 12 shows weekly now through Jan. 7th. Check online for show times availability. Tickets start at 39.50.